Few players measure in comparison to the tangible impact T.J. Watt has had one the Pittsburgh Steelers defense over the last eight seasons. Watt is a proven game-wrecker, having developed into one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL.
Since his rookie extension, Watt has an extraordinary pass rushing resumé, totaling 58.5 sacks in four seasons. That included 22.5 sacks in 2021, tying the single season record set by Michael Strahan.
Watt's individual abilities jump off the page but he's arguably the catalyst for the success of others patrolling the Steelers' defense, commanding so much attention that offenses have no choice but to be vulnerable elsewhere.
Arguably the most important Steeler of the last decade, he and the team have hit a rift this offseason. Watt, heading into the final year of that rookie extension, seeks a new contract.
The two sides have not made any progress on a deal to this point, leading to a major announcement regarding Watt's status on Tuesday morning. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the six-time All-Pro linebacker will not be in attendance for the team's mandatory minicamp this week.
His holdout will result in a series of fines for the three days of absence including $17,462 on Day 1, $34,925 on Day 2 and $52,381 on Day 3. That comes out to a total of $104,768.
Rival edge rusher Myles Garrett reset the market for defensive players earlier this offseason with an extension paying out $40 million per year with the Cleveland Browns.
Watt's exact asking price is not exactly clear to this point, but it has certainly climbed with that move and other corresponding actions. He will have the most expensive cap hit for the Steelers this season with an expected figure of over $30 million.